Tenerife - Lisbon Between island dreams and desert winds

El Hierro, the smallest of the Canary Islands, is located around 1,450 km (900 mi.) from the Spanish mainland and is a true natural paradise: spectacular volcanic landscapes and bizarre lava rock formations characterise the landscape, as do the dense laurel and pine forests of the fertile Valle de El Golfo. Due to its flora and fauna, which are largely untouched by external influences, the entire island has been declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Whether you want to enjoy the natural beauty on a long hike or discover the authentic cuisine of El Hierro in a restaurant, the long lay time of the EUROPA 2 will give you plenty of time for your activities.

Laurel forests, shrouded in mystical fog, shape the wild beauty of La Gomera. Garajonay National Park tells a story of ancient times, when nature still played the leading role. The coasts drop dramatically into the sea and El Silbo, the whistled language of the Indigenous people, rings through the valleys. From the summits, there are views over the unending blue of the Atlantic, where the waves gently lap against the rugged cliffs. La Gomera is a place full of secrets and magic, a paradise for explorers and dreamers. Enjoy fascinating experiences until the evening hours – thanks to the long lay time.

Gran Canaria’s lively capital, Las Palmas, combines culture and beaches in a unique way. In the old town of Vegueta, cobbled streets, colonial facades and the Cathedral of Santa Ana reveal the beauty of centuries past, while Las Canteras beach invites you to enjoy the relaxed island life right in the heart of the metropolis. Gran Canaria itself fascinates visitors with its extraordinary natural diversity: the famous Maspalomas dunes stretch out to the south while the mighty Roque Nublo mountain towers over the centre as a landmark. Hiking trails lead through pine and laurel forests, past extinct volcanic craters and up to Pico de la Nieves, the second-highest point on the island, where breathtaking views can be enjoyed. The long lay time extends your impressions into the evening.

Agadir welcomes its guests with a coastline that stretches gently in the sunlight and offers sweeping views across the Atlantic Ocean. Along the golden Corniche, the well-maintained promenade invites you to stroll, while colourfully painted fishing boats rock gently to the rhythm of the waves. High above the city rises the old kasbah – a silent guardian that tells of times gone by. In the alleys of the Souk El Had, the scents of cinnamon, saffron and fresh mint mingle to create an enchanting feast for the senses. This is where modern life meets the history of the Berbers, who still whisper of freedom and tradition in the mountains. Enjoy the atmosphere until the evening thanks to a long lay time.

Modern life and historic charm go hand in hand in Casablanca. The lively metropolis is Morocco's economic centre and offers an exciting mix of Arab/Muslim heritage and remnants from the French colonial period. The old town, also known as the medina, is inviting with its winding streets and numerous bazaars to wander around, while the Art Deco district and the Corniche promenade show the city’s modern side. At the end of the Corniche you will see the majestic Hassan II Mosque and its minaret rising about 210 m (689 ft) into the blue sky: one of the largest mosques in the world, its architectural beauty and the glorious marble of the huge prayer hall are impressive. The long lay time time allows you to relax and unwind at the end of the day.

Tangier is a Moroccan port city on the Strait of Gibraltar. Its origins going back to the fifth century BC, the city is captivating with its lively medina and busy markets offering traditional handicrafts. The kasbah with its impressive Tor Bab el Kasbah rises up over the city and offers fascinating insights into the past. You get a sense of a wide variety of influences in the narrow streets – from the Carthaginians to the Romans and the Moors, all have left the marks of their different cultures. Thanks to the long lay time, you’ll enjoy fascinating experiences until the evening hours.

At the southern end of the Iberian Peninsula, the striking Rock of Gibraltar greets all seafarers from afar. Right at the foot of the monolithic limestone rock lies a fascinating piece of Great Britain: Gibraltar. Red telephone boxes, teatime and double-decker buses give the city its typical English charm. The lighthouse in the south offers breathtaking views across the sea to Africa. The free-roaming Barbary macaques, which can be found here, are unique in Europe – according to legend, Gibraltar will remain British as long as they are there. But be careful, as it’s better not to feed the cheeky animals. Gibraltar combines history, nature and British flair, offering visitors a unique experience.

A unique blend of magnificent palaces, historic monasteries and picturesque narrow streets greets visitors to the Portuguese capital. Lisbon has a magical charm of times gone by and surprises in store at every corner. The medieval Castelo de Sao Jorge stands guard over the city, while the Alfama district with its narrow winding streets and staircases offers an authentic insight into the old Lisbon. Don’t miss a trip on the famous Tram 28, which winds its way up and down the hills. Cafes, shops and street sellers make the city centre a lively place to be. With its many lifts and trams, the city’s steep hills are easy to explore and its many sights can generally be reached on foot. Take your time to soak up the atmosphere, as the ship will stay overnight.